Press Releases
Governor Quinn Celebrates Veterans' Day at Illinois State Fair
SPRINGFIELD – August 15, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today joined Veterans, servicemembers and military families to celebrate Veterans’ Day at the 2010 Illinois State Fair. The Governor honored Veterans for their contributions and service to the country and the state at Veterans’ Day at the Illinois State Fair.
“There is no greater sacrifice than choosing to serve your country, and we must never forget the brave men and women who had the courage to fight for our democracy,” said Governor Quinn. “Today is an important day in Illinois to honor our Veterans, as well as those who continue to serve. Without their courage we would not be able here today, enjoying the festivities of our great state fair.”
To commemorate Veterans’ Day, Governor Quinn honored 285 men and women from Illinois who have died in combat since Sept. 11, 2001. The Governor also recognized Illinois Veterans, especially those who served in the Korean War. The 60th anniversary of the Korean War is being commemorated this year.
“Veterans’ Day at the Illinois State Fair is a fitting tribute to the scores of Illinois Veterans who have served our country with honor and who continue to give back and serve their communities every day,” said Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Dan Grant. “They are among the best, brightest and most dedicated, and we are humbled in recognizing them today.”
Governor Quinn also encouraged fairgoers to visit the Portrait of a Solder Tent near the Governor’s Tent at the fair. The hand drawn sketches of fallen servicemen and servicewomen that make up the Portrait of a Solder exhibit are on display in the tent throughout the fair, and Governor Quinn urged families to stop by to honor Illinois’ Fallen on Veterans’ Day.
The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs also held a daylong Helping Our Hometown Heroes benefits resource fair to provide Veterans with information about federal, state and local benefits they are entitled to receive.
Governor Quinn was joined by state and local officials, as well as and Illinois Korean War Veterans Association President Walter Ade. The U.S. Coast Guard Silent Drill Team, Carrie Lyn Infusion Band, and Joe Cantafio and the 101st Rock Division band all performed at the event.
For more information about events at the 2010 Illinois State Fair, please visit www.illinoisstatefair.info, or call (217) 782-6661.
Press Releases